EXFO IQS-2400 User Manual
IQS-2400
IQS-2400 for IQS Platforms
Copyright © 2005–2008 EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc. All rights
reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a
retrieval system or transmitted in any form, be it electronically,
mechanically, or by any other means such as photocopying, recording or
otherwise, without the prior written permission of EXFO Electro-Optical
Engineering Inc. (EXFO).
Information provided by EXFO is believed to be accurate and reliable.
However, no responsibility is assumed by EXFO for its use nor for any
infringements of patents or other rights of third parties that may result from
its use. No license is granted by implication or otherwise under any patent
rights of EXFO.
EXFO’s Commerce And Government Entities (CAGE) code under the North
Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is 0L8C3.
The information contained in this publication is subject to change without
notice.
Trademarks
EXFO’s trademarks have been identified as such. However, the presence
or absence of such identification does not affect the legal status of any
trademark.
Units of Measurement
Units of measurement in this publication conform to SI standards and
practices.
Version number: 2.0.0
ii IQS-2400
Contents
Contents
Certification Information ........................................................................................................v
1 Introducing the IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source ............................................. 1
Main Features .........................................................................................................................1
Safety Features .......................................................................................................................4
Typical Applications ................................................................................................................6
Conventions ............................................................................................................................7
2 Safety Information ....................................................................................... 9
3 Getting Started with Your WDM Laser Source ......................................... 11
Inserting and Removing Test Modules ..................................................................................11
Starting the WDM Laser Source Application .........................................................................15
Entering Values Using Sliders and Numeric Boxes .................................................................19
Exiting the Application .........................................................................................................20
4 Setting Up the WDM Laser Source ............................................................ 21
Selecting a Control Mode .....................................................................................................21
Setting Modulation (for Dither and On/Off Modulation) ......................................................24
Configuring Wavelength/Frequency or Delta Temperature ....................................................26
Configuring Power or Delta Current .....................................................................................30
Managing Fine-Tuning Values ...............................................................................................33
Managing Predefined Parameters (Presets) ...........................................................................34
Saving and Recalling Configurations .....................................................................................37
5 Operating the WDM Laser Source ............................................................. 39
Cleaning and Connecting Optical Fibers ...............................................................................39
Installing the EXFO Universal Interface (EUI) .........................................................................40
Activating and Deactivating the Source ................................................................................41
Correcting the Output Power Level .......................................................................................43
Synchronizing Sources ..........................................................................................................45
6 Controlling Multiple WDM Laser Source Modules ................................... 47
Starting a Multimodule Application ......................................................................................47
Selecting Modules to Control ...............................................................................................48
Setting Up Multiple IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source Modules ..................................................49
Controlling a Single IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source ................................................................53
Navigating and Closing Multiple Module Windows ..............................................................54
WDM Laser Source iii
Contents
7 Monitoring WDM Laser Source Modules ...................................................55
Using Monitor Windows .......................................................................................................55
Using QuickTools ...................................................................................................................58
8 Maintenance ................................................................................................61
Cleaning Fixed Connectors ....................................................................................................62
Cleaning EUI Connectors ......................................................................................................64
Recalibrating the Unit ...........................................................................................................66
Recycling and Disposal (Applies to European Union Only) ....................................................67
9 Troubleshooting ..........................................................................................69
Solving Common Problems ...................................................................................................69
Viewing Online Documentation ............................................................................................70
Finding Information on the EXFO Web Site ..........................................................................70
Contacting the Technical Support Group ..............................................................................71
Transportation ......................................................................................................................72
10 Warranty ......................................................................................................73
General Information .............................................................................................................73
Liability .................................................................................................................................73
Exclusions .............................................................................................................................74
Certification ..........................................................................................................................74
Service and Repairs ...............................................................................................................75
EXFO Service Centers Worldwide ..........................................................................................76
A Technical Specifications ..............................................................................77
B SCPI Command Reference ..........................................................................79
Quick Reference Command Tree ...........................................................................................80
Product-Specific Commands—Description ............................................................................83
C Polarization-Maintaining Laser Connectorization ..................................181
D Wavelength and Power Control, General Principles ...............................183
Wavelength Control ............................................................................................................183
Power Control .....................................................................................................................183
Index ...............................................................................................................185
iv IQS-2400
Certification Information
Certification Information
F.C.C. Information
Electronic test equipment is exempt from Part 15 compliance (FCC) in
the United States. However, compliance verification tests are
systematically performed on most EXFO equipment.
Information
Electronic test equipment is subject to the EMC Directive in the European
Union. The EN61326 standard prescribes both emission and immunity
requirements for laboratory, measurement, and control equipment.
This unit has undergone extensive testing according to the European Union
Directive and Standards.
IMPORTANT
Use of shielded remote I/O cables, with properly grounded shields
and metal connectors, is recommended in order to reduce radio
frequency interference that may emanate from these cables.
WDM Laser Source v
Certification Information
Application of Council Directive(s): 73/23/EEC - The Low Voltage Directive
89/336/EEC - The EMC Directive
And their amendments
Manufacturer’s Name: EXFO Electro-Optical Engineering Inc.
Manufacturer’s Address: 400 Godin Avenue
Quebec, Quebec
Canada G1M 2K2
(418) 683-0211
Equipment Type/Environment: Test & Measurement / Industrial
Trade Name/Model No.: IQS-2400
WDM Laser Source
Standard(s) to which Conformity is Declared:
EN 61010-1:2001 Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement,
Control, and Laboratory Use, Part 1: General Requirements.
EN 60825-1:1994 +A11:1996
+A2: 2001 +A1: 2002
Safety of laser products – Part 1: Equipment classifications,
requirements, and user’s guide
EN 55022: 1998 +A2: 2003 Limits and Methods of Measurement of Radio Disturbance
Characteristics of Information Technology Equipment.
EN 61326:1997 +A1:1998
+A2:2001 + A3:2003
Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory
Use - EMC Requirements
I, the undersigned, hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directive and Standards.
Manufacturer
Signature:
Full Name: Stephen Bull, E. Eng
Position: Vice-President Research and
Development
Address:
400 Godin Avenue, Quebec (Quebec),
Canada, G1M 2K2
Date: January 7, 2002
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
vi IQS-2400
1 Introducing the IQS-2400
WDM Laser Source
Main Features
The IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source is a DFB laser source configured at a
wavelength set at the time of purchase. However, you can adjust this
wavelength within a ± 1 nm tuning range around the ITU-T wavelengths.
This DFB laser source integrates an internal attenuation so you can vary the
output power. The built-in optical isolator of the DFB laser increases power
stability. All models, except the IQS-2402, can also come equipped with a
built-in polarization-maintaining fiber (PMF) output.
The power and wavelength of each DFB laser are calibrated using a
wavelength meter and a four-channel power meter traceable to NIST
standards (for power) or to natural physical constants (for wavelengths).
This calibration method ensures a fully referenced and automated
calibration of the DFB’s internal temperature and laser current to obtain a
precise central wavelength at any power level.
WDM Laser Source 1
Introducing the IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source
Sync. in TTL port
Sync. out TTL port
Source port
Interlock connector
Laser radiation hazard sticker
(certain models only)
SYNC.
OUT
TTL
SYNC.
IN
TTL
ACTIVE
OUT
WDM Laser Source
IQS-2400
Retaining screw knob
Active LED
LED push button
Main Features
The IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source features wavelength tuning capabilities
for each of the ITU-T grid wavelengths, coherence control through a small
signal, and direct current modulation with a triangular or square
waveform. DFB laser diode manufacturers can also choose to integrate
their own lasers into the IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source.
Note: Actual connectors may differ from the ones shown above.
2 IQS-2400
Introducing the IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source
Main Features
The IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source can operate in the following modes:
³ Normal mode provides access to total wavelength- and power-tuning
ranges, maintaining full control of the output power (automatic power
control).
³ High Wavelength Stability mode enables you to set wavelength and
power-tuning resolution with picometer accuracy through laser
temperature and current steps.
³ Dither Modulation mode adds a small waveform (triangular or square)
to the central wavelength signal, reducing the signal coherence length.
It provides modulation capabilities.
³ On/Off Modulation mode ensures maximum optical extinction and
make possible the synchronization of several sources from an external
TTL signal generator or from any module synchronization output. It
provides modulation capabilities.
WDM Laser Source 3
Introducing the IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source
Safety Features
Safety Features
To comply with laser safety regulations, each IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source
is supplied with special security features.
Interlock Connector
The IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source is equipped with a remote interlock
connector so you can install a security switch or panic button. The WDM
Laser Source is shipped with an internally shorted interlock cap. It is your
responsibility to install external remote interlocks to ensure safe use of
your instrument.
The sticker is affixed to the front panel, just above the
interlock connector to identify it.
The interlock circuit has the following characteristics:
³ When it is open, the WDM Laser Source cannot be activated.
³ If the WDM Laser Source is active before the interlock circuit is
opened, it becomes inactive. For your safety, the WDM Laser Source
will not become active automatically upon closing the interlock circuit.
You will have to turn it on again. Putting the application’s switch to OFF
will shut down the instrument at any time.
The state of the interlock circuit (open or closed) is indicated in the WDM
Laser Source application.
4 IQS-2400
Introducing the IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source
Instrument is unlocked:
Closed interlock icon
Instrument is locked:
Open interlock icon
Safety Features
Protection Software Key
For additional safety, you cannot activate the WDM Laser Source (with the
application ON/OFF switch) without unlocking it by entering the security
password “safekey”when prompted.
Note: This password cannot be changed and is the same for all instruments
requiring a software key.
Once the instrument has been unlocked, the Unlock button remains
pressed and the icon shows a closed interlock.
Five-Second Safety Delay
The IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source application provides a five-second safety
delay between the instrument activation and actual light emission. During
this five-second delay, you may cancel the activation of the laser by using
the instrument activation/deactivation switch, by opening the interlock
circuit or by using the software key button.
Note: The source emits a weak signal during the five-second delay.
WDM Laser Source 5
Introducing the IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source
Typic a l A pp l icatio n s
Typical Applications
Because of its accuracy, you can use the IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source
instead of a wavelength measurement system when testing components
and subsystems.
The IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source emulates ITU-T channels in dense WDM
applications such as multiwavelength network simulation, simultaneous
multiple inputs for EDFA characterization, and insertion loss measurement
of WDM passive components. It is ideal for production environments and
offers unequaled long-term wavelength stability.
Place more than one IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source in an IQS Platforms and
obtain the versatility and reliability you need for optical fiber amplifier
testing and network qualification. In addition, with the IQS Platforms, you
can set up and control all of your modules at the same time.
You can customize your own high-performance test station by adding one
or several of the following modules to the WDM Laser Source: IQS-3100
Variable Attenuator, IQS-5100B Polarization Scrambler, IQS-5250B Optical
Spectrum Analyzer, IQS-9100 Optical Switch.
The IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source supports local control (via the
IQS Manager software) and remote control (through GPIB, RS-232, or
Ethernet TCP/IP using SCPI commands or the provided LabVIEW drivers).
For more information, refer to the IQS platform user guide.
6 IQS-2400
Introducing the IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source
Conventions
Conventions
Before using the product described in this manual, you should understand
the following conventions:
WARNING
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury. Do not proceed unless you
understand and meet the required conditions.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
may result in minor or moderate injury. Do not proceed unless you
understand and meet the required conditions.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
may result in component damage. Do not proceed unless you
understand and meet the required conditions.
IMPORTANT
Refers to information about this product you should not overlook.
WDM Laser Source 7
2 Safety Information
Affixed to module’s
side panel
Affixed to module’s
side panel
WARNING
Do not install or terminate fibers while a light source is active.
Never look directly into a live fiber and ensure that your eyes are
protected at all times.
WARNING
Use of controls, adjustments and procedures for operation and
maintenance other than those specified herein may result in
hazardous radiation exposure.
Your instrument is a Class 1M laser product in compliance with standards
IEC 60825-1 Amendment 2: 2001 and 21 CFR 1040.10. Invisible laser
radiation may be encountered at the output port.
The product is safe under reasonably foreseeable conditions of operation
but it may be hazardous if you use optics within a diverging or collimated
beam. Do not view directly with optical instruments.
WDM Laser Source 9
3 Getting Started with Your
Retaining screw
knob
Protective cover
2b
2a
WDM Laser Source
Inserting and Removing Test Modules
CAUTION
Never insert or remove a module while the controller unit and its
expansion units are turned on. This will result in immediate and
irreparable damage to both the module and unit.
To insert a module into the controller or expansion unit:
1. Exit IQS Manager and turn off all your units.
2. Remove the protective cover from the desired unused module slot.
2a. Pull the retaining screw knob firmly towards you and release the
bottom of the cover.
2b. Gently pull the top of the protective cover downwards, to remove
it from the unit grooves.
3. Position the module so that its front panel is facing you and the top and
bottom protruding edges are to your right.
WDM Laser Source 11
Getting Started with Your WDM Laser Source
Retaining screw
Retaining screw knob
Protruding edges
(right side of module)
5
6
Inserting and Removing Test Modules
4. Insert the protruding edges of the module into the grooves of the unit’s
module slot.
5. Push the module all the way to the back of the slot, until the retaining
screw makes contact with the unit casing.
6. While applying slight pressure to the module, turn the retaining screw
knob (located at the bottom of the panel) clockwise until the knob is
horizontal.
This will secure the module into its “seated” position.
12 IQS-2400
Getting Started with Your WDM Laser Source
Retaining screw knob
Inserting and Removing Test Modules
The module is correctly inserted when its front panel is flush with the front
panel of the controller or expansion unit.
When you turn on the controller unit, the startup sequence will
automatically detect your module.
Note: You can insert IQ modules into your controller or expansion unit; the
IQS Manager software will recognize them. However, the IQS-2400 locking
mechanism (retaining screw) will not work for IQ modules.
To remove a module from your controller or expansion unit:
1. While pulling gently on the knob, turn it counterclockwise until it stops.
The module will slowly be released from the slot.
2. Place your fingers underneath the module or hold it by the retaining
screw knob (NOT by the connector) and pull it out.
WDM Laser Source 13
Getting Started with Your WDM Laser Source
YES
NO
Retaining screw
knob
Connector
Inserting and Removing Test Modules
CAUTION
Pulling out a module by a connector could seriously damage both
the module and connector. Always pull out a module by the
retaining screw knob.
3. Cover empty slots with the supplied protective covers.
3a. Slide the top of the protective cover into the upper grooves of the
unit.
3b. Snap the cover into place by pushing the retaining screw knob.
Failure to reinstall protective covers over empty slots will result in
ventilation problems.
14 IQS-2400
CAUTION
Getting Started with Your WDM Laser Source
Highlighted
module
(white
background)
Starting the WDM Laser Source Application
Starting the WDM Laser Source Application
Your IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source module can be configured and
controlled from its dedicated IQS Managerapplication.
Note: For details about IQS Manager, refer to the IQS platform user guide.
To start the application:
1. From the Current Modules function tab select the module to use.
It will turn white to indicate that it is highlighted.
2. Click Start Application.
OR
Press the green LED push button on the front of the corresponding
module.
You can also double-click its row.
WDM Laser Source 15
Getting Started with Your WDM Laser Source
Function
tabs
Parameter
definition
controls
Data
display
Title bar
Status
bar
Starting the WDM Laser Source Application
Note: Pressing the LED push button will not activate or turn on the module.
Note: To start the corresponding monitor window at the same time, click Start
App. & Monitor. The window opens on the Monitors function tab.
The main window (shown below) contains all the commands required to
control the WDM Laser Source:
16 IQS-2400
Getting Started with Your WDM Laser Source
Source
control
mode
Source
status
indicator
Interlock circuit status indicator
Spectral and power values
Reference
values
Temperature and
current values
Open interlock circuit Closed interlock circuit
Starting the WDM Laser Source Application
Data Display
Depending on the setup, the displayed units (nm/THz, dBm/mW) will
change and some items may appear in bright colors or be grayed out.
The state of the interlock circuit (open or closed) is indicated by an icon, as
shown below:
WDM Laser Source 17
Getting Started with Your WDM Laser Source
Slot number in which module is inserted
(0 identifies first slot)
Controller unit or expansion unit (1 to 999) housing
the module
[ 999 – 1 ]
Current date and timeModule/unit status
Local: Module controlled locally only.
Remote: Module controlled remotely, but
local commands can also be used.
Lockout: Module controlled remotely only.
Control mode
Starting the WDM Laser Source Application
Title Bar
The title bar is located at the top of the main window. It displays the
module name and its position in the controller or expansion unit. The
module position is identified as follows:
Status Bar
The status bar, located at the bottom of the main window, identifies the
operational status of the IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source.
For more information about automating or remotely controlling the
IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source, refer to your platform user guide.
18 IQS-2400
Getting Started with Your WDM Laser Source
Numeric box
button
Fine-tuning
box
Slider
Navigation buttons
Parameter identification
Toggle button
Backspace button
(to correct a value)
Clear button
Entry display
Entering Values Using Sliders and Numeric Boxes
Entering Values Using Sliders and Numeric
Boxes
Many parameters in IQS Manager and module applications can be set
using the following tools.
³ Slider: Drag it to the desired value on the scale below.
³ Navigation buttons: Click either buttons to move the slider. The slider
moves by steps corresponding to the number in the fine-tuning box,
which you can change by using the up and down arrow buttons next to
the box. You cannot change the list of fine-tuning values from here.
³ Numeric box: Click it to display the on-screen numeric pad, which you
can use to enter a powe value.
WDM Laser Source 19
To enter a value using the numeric box:
1. Use the button to clear the entry display.
2. Enter the value.
3. Click OK to confirm the value.
Getting Started with Your WDM Laser Source
Exiting the Application
Exiting the Application
Closing any application that is not currently being used is a good way to
free system memory.
To close the application from the main window:
Click in the top right corner of the main window.
OR
Click the Exit button located at the bottom of the function bar.
To close all currently running applications:
From IQS Manager, click Close All Applications.
20 IQS-2400
4 Setting Up the WDM Laser
Source
Selecting a Control Mode
The IQS-2400 WDM Laser Source offers the following control modes:
Mode Explanation Display
Normal ³ To maximize output power
stability.
³ Default mode used to tune
wavelength and power
throughout their respective
ranges (2 nm for wavelength
and 10 dB for power).
³ To maintain power at the
specified level, the monitor
current at the back end of the
laser will be held constant.
Laser current intensity is
adjusted in real time to
produce a constant output
power. Since peak wavelength
varies with laser current
intensity, the emission
spectrum is slightly enlarged.
Dither
Modulation
³ Combination of Normal mode
and dithering.
³ In this mode, you can have a
1 mA to 5 mA tone (dithering),
which can either be a square
or triangular wave.
During laser stabilization,
spectral value (wavelength
or frequency) and power are
displayed in dark green;
however, adjustments can
be made by using the
control center buttons. After
laser temperature
stabilization, both values are
displayed in light green.
For Norm a l m od e o nl y : if
you use Relative value,
reference values appear at
the bottom right-hand side
of the display (see
Configuring
Wavelength/Frequency or
Delta Temperature on page
29 and Configuring Power or
Delta Current on page 33).
WDM Laser Source 21
Setting Up the WDM Laser Source
Selecting a Control Mode
Mode Explanation Display
High
Wa v el e ng t h
Stability
On/Off
Modulation
³ Used when central wavelength
stability is critical.
³ Current is constant, thus
maintaining wavelength
stability. Once power and
wavelength have been set to
the required levels (in Normal
mode), select High Wavelength
Stability mode to enhance
wavelength stability at the
established value. A limited
tuning range is permitted
around this value (± 1 °C for
wavelength or ± 1 mA for
current). Power stability can be
enhanced after a very long
stabilization period (typically 2
days).
³ This mode (50 % duty cycle)
uses half the average power
available from the source
module. It controls current
during the “on” cycle of the
signal.
³ The tuning range for
temperature and current are
the same as in High
Wavelength Stability mode.
Even though wavelength
and power are displayed in
light green, they cannot be
adjusted. Both modes are
used for fine-tuning laser
temperature and current on
a limited range around
nominal wavelength and
power levels reached in
Normal mode. Laser
temperature and current are
displayed just below the
power value.
22 IQS-2400
Setting Up the WDM Laser Source
Source
control
mode
Source
status
indicator
Interlock circuit status indicator
Spectral and power values
Reference valuesTemperature and current values
Selecting a Control Mode
The spectral value shown on the data display is either the wavelength or
the frequency of the signal emitted. The spectral value corresponds to the
spectral unit you select in the main window. Wavelength values are given
in nm and frequency values in THz.
To select a control mode:
1. From the main window, select the Settings function tab.
2. Select the Control and Modulation tab.
3. From the Control Mode panel, select the desired control mode.
Note: You can modify the control mode while the laser is active. Changes to laser
operation will take effect immediately.
WDM Laser Source 23
Setting Up the WDM Laser Source
Setting Modulation (for Dither and On/Off Modulation)
Setting Modulation (for Dither and On/Off
Modulation)
Modulation can be synchronized with a TTL signal coming from the
module itself (internal) or from another module (external). Default values
are Internal for synchronization and On/Off for modulation.
The module determines minimum and maximum frequencies.
For a dither modulation signal, you can select the depth and waveform of
the amplitude modulation signal added or overlapped over the CW signal.
The module's differential efficiency determines minimum and maximum
depths.
To set up the modulation:
1. From the main window, select the Settings function tab.
2. Select the Control and Modulation tab.
3. For the On/Off control mode, select the source synchronization mode:
internal or external from the Synchronization section.
Note: Synchronization can only be internal with Dither Modulation control mode.
24 IQS-2400
Loading...